I'm in the process of calculating train passes (Berner Oberland, Half Fare, etc.)
If we do the Berner Oberland regional pass, can we just get on trains that are part of the free inclusion or do we still have to go to the machine to get a ticket/validate that our pass is there, even when it's free like you can with the Swiss Travel Pass? Obviously we still have to purchase tickets for Schilthorn, etc. when they are 50% off, but wondering about the free rides.
When you buy on-line, you specify the date of first validity, so you just get on and ride the covered transports and show when asked by the conductor. Show when you buy tickets for transports that are not covered. Free rides on the Schilthornbahn are covered by the Swiss Travel Pass this year.
As Sam say, it works the same as other passes, you just get on the train (or bus or boat or cable car) and show your pass when asked. You will also need to show your passport as ID, but sometimes they don't ask for it.
For places where there is a reduction, show your pass when you buy the tickets.
The map showing where it is valid is here: https://www.regionalpass-berneroberland.ch/assets/pass-and-infos/geltungsbereich/Geltungsbereich2018.pdf
